Barbecue Bacon Wrapped-Chestnuts(Hors D'Oeuvres)
Savory bacon-wrapped water chestnuts glazed in a tangy, sweet sauce make a perfect appetizer for parties and gatherings, combining smoky, crunchy, and flavorful elements.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat catsup, pineapple juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dry mustard until warm.
- Cut bacon into 1/2 or 1/3-inch strips (width-wise).
- Partially precook the bacon until just starting to brown.
- Wrap each water chestnut with a bacon strip and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts in a 9 x 12-inch cake pan.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts.
- Cover the pan with foil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until bacon is cooked and glazed.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, try marinating the water chestnuts in soy sauce or teriyaki sauce before wrapping them in bacon. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used, but be aware it may not crisp up as well. Additionally, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
These bacon-wrapped chestnuts are perfect as a party appetizer and pair well with a tangy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad. Consider serving them alongside Baked Calico Beans for a hearty spread. For a fun twist, serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue sauce for guests to enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover barbecue bacon-wrapped chestnuts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Bacon Wrapped-Chestnuts(Hors D'Oeuvres) contains roughly 36 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bacon-wrapped chestnuts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped chestnuts a day ahead. Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of water chestnuts?
If you can't find water chestnuts, you can substitute with blanched fresh vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, though the texture will differ. Another option is to use canned bamboo shoots, which have a similar crunch.
How do I ensure the bacon crisps up nicely?
Partially cooking the bacon before wrapping is key to achieving crispiness. Additionally, placing the wrapped chestnuts on a wire rack in the baking pan allows for better air circulation, ensuring that the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).